Testing in Australia has uncovered the banned pesticide thiometon on fresh berries sold in New South Wales, along with high levels of the legal pesticide dimethoate. While within legal limits, experts warn that both adults and children could exceed the Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI) by consuming less than a standard 125-gram punnet.
How Effective Is Washing?
Julian Cox, Associate Professor of Food Microbiology at UNSW, said washing fresh produce reduces risks from chemicals, soil, and microbes. He highlighted that softer fruits like raspberries require special care, while commercially sold produce is often pre-washed using food-grade solutions.
Nutrition scientist Emma Beckett suggests rinsing raspberries in a vinegar-water solution, assuring it doesn’t alter their flavour. She also advises washing hands before handling produce to avoid transferring bacteria.
Baking Soda and Salt Can Help
Jian Zhao, Associate Professor at UNSW, says baking soda accelerates the breakdown of certain chemical residues due to its alkaline nature. He recommends soaking produce with harder skins in water mixed with salt or baking soda for about 10 minutes.
Strict Pesticide Regulations in Australia
Food Standards Australia New Zealand (FSANZ) and the APVMA strictly regulate pesticide use and set maximum residue limits (MRLs) well below harmful levels. While some pesticides are absorbed into plant tissues, withholding periods and harvest guidelines ensure food safety.
Microbial Risks Are Greater Than Chemical Ones
Dr Cox emphasizes that public health risks are more often microbial than chemical. Washing produce helps reduce the risk of foodborne illness by removing soil and contaminants.
The Value of Fruits and Vegetables Remains Undisputed
Dr Beckett stresses that fear of pesticides shouldn’t discourage people from eating fruits and vegetables. “If this became a reason for people to eat fewer fruits and vegetables, that would be really sad,” she said.
SOURCE: ABC
